El Dorado brings back explosive playmakers for 2016

EL PASO, Texas – While many teams will be looking to rebuild this year, El Dorado is bringing back some key weapons.

Last year, the Aztecs put up 40 or more points in seven games. They even scored 70 points twice. This year, they bring back leading receiver Jorge Hernandez and Washington St. commit Tyquez Hampton.

“You know, Tyquez, of course, he’s kind of the standout guy,” said coach Ruben Torres, who just took over the program this offseason. “But we’ve got plenty of playmakers all arund him. You know, Jorge Hernandez was our leading receiver last year. Quarterback Cedarious Barfield has been great.”

One new thing this year is the head coach. Ruben Torres has the tough task of taking over the program from a legend in Jim Althoff, who retired after the 2015 season.

“Oh, [Coach Torres] is a handful. I’ll tell you that much,” said Hampton. But, you know, since he came, he’s helped us develop new ways of running routes, easier ways of running routes to make them more effective.”

The Aztecs open with a tough game against Eastlake, whom Torres called “one of the best teams in West Texas.” El Dorado managed to beat Eastlake in a high-scoring affair last year that witnessed 119 points between the teams.

But for all the offensive firepower, El Dorado is looking to be tougher on defense this year.

“They came straight at us as soon as we got our pads,” said Hampton. “They started hitting and knocking heads. And that’s something every football team needs.”

El Dorado knows it will have to be a close-knit group this year. After winning a district title last year, they feel they have a target on their backs.

“We’re actually like a family now,” said linebacker Kevin Henderson. “Everybody has a chance to play where they want to play. And everybody is coming after us like we’re number one. So we’ve got to show up and play our hardest and stay number one.”